CONMEN stole money and four diamond rings after they tricked their way into an elderly couple's home in Crossways near Dorchester today (Thurs), police said.

The men claimed to be from the water board and said they needed to turn the water off.

The burglary happened between 12.30pm and 1pm.

Dorset Police are warning elderly residents to be vigilant after a string of similar incidents across Dorset this afternoon, all thought to be committed by the same gang.

At 2pm an elderly woman found two men in her house in Northmoor Way, Wareham. It is not thought anything was taken from the property.

Less than an hour later two men were asked to leave an elderly woman's house in Lytchett Minster after bursting in claiming to be from the water board saying they needed to turn the water off.

Later, an elderly man found two men in his home in Foxholes Road, Poole. The men fled with cash.

The conmen are described as white, of average build and height with strong Irish accents. One of them wore gloves.

They are thought to be driving a silver grey car, possibly a Rover 400.

Contact police in confidence on 01305 222222.